Hobao Hyper MT Sport Plus Nitro

This big block–powered monster packs a punch.

- Kevin Hetmanski

HoBao is back and hitting the ground running with its new batch of vehicles. In the past few issues, I reviewed the Hyper MT Sport Plus electric monster truck and the Hyper VS 1/8-scale nitro buggy and both were a lot of fun. Up next is the nitro version of the Hyper MT Sport Plus, and after running the electric version and having the experience of the nitro power that HoBao has to offer, I have no doubt that this is also going to be a good time, with features like a .30-size engine, large aggressive-tread tires, and a 2-speed transmission.

All-Metal Drivetrain

The Hyper MT Sport Plus has a transmission and front and rear gearboxes filled with durable machined steel gears, which provide plenty of strength. That’s something we are used to seeing on vehicles these days, but what we aren’t used to seeing is a transmission without any sort of slipper clutch attached to the spur gear. Yep, you get the clutch bell, a spur gear, and that’s about it. Unlike the electric version of the truck, the nitro version has a clutch that will provide some slip if the transmission takes a hit.

Independent Suspension

Independent suspension soaks up the land on all four corners, and it features a lower H-arm with adjustable upper links. Controlling the action of the arms are four large 16mm-bore oil-filled shocks that feature threaded bodies for easy ride-height adjustment. HoBao does a good job on the factory build; everything operates smoothly.

.30-Size Power